At 60 years old, Ken Simpson stands as a beacon of hope and innovation in the world of auditory solutions. Ken’s journey with hearing loss began over two decades ago, characterised by a persistent challenge: cholesteatomas in both ears. Despite his long history of dealing with these complex conditions, Ken has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability.
For 20 years, Ken has been under the expert care of Dr. Chang, navigating a series of auditory treatments that included the use of Baha devices. While these devices initially offered some improvement, recurrent infections posed significant setbacks, making it clear that a more effective solution was needed.
In 2017, after extensive discussions with Dr. Chang and his audiologist, Ken made the decision to receive a cochlear implant. This marked a pivotal moment in his auditory journey, providing him with renewed hope and a significant boost in hearing capabilities. The cochlear implant was a crucial step forward, but Ken’s commitment to optimising his hearing experience didn’t stop there.
By 2022, Ken’s proactive mindset with his hearing and his trust in our audiologists and Dr Chang, led him to receive an Osia bone conduction implant device, complementing his cochlear implant. This bimodal approach, combining the strengths of both technologies, allowed Ken to achieve an exceptional level of auditory performance. The co-operation between the cochlear implant and the Osia device greatly enhanced his ability to hear and engage with the world around him.
Ken’s personal success story with these implantable devices has transformed him into a passionate advocate for hearing health. He has dedicated himself to helping others understand the benefits and possibilities of cochlear and bone conduction implants. Through his advocacy, Ken shares his experiences and insights, offering valuable support to patients navigating their own hearing challenges.
Ken Simpson’s journey—from battling cholesteatomas to becoming one of the first bimodal recipients—is a testament to his determination and the innovative advancements in hearing technology. His story not only highlights the effectiveness of implantable devices but also underscores the importance of personalised care and advocacy in achieving optimal auditory outcomes.
